The earlier flight, which was kicked off on Tuesday with a celebration featuring official speeches, New York bagels and other treats, leaves San Antonio at 9:05 a.m. The return flight departs New York at 8:05 p.m. Eastern time.

Delta announced the route and several others into New York last May, saying it hoped to become the public’s preferred carrier into that metropolis. Local officials also were excited about the new service. No one mentioned — as one popular picante sauce ad once did — any need for a rope.

“Delta’s investment in San Antonio will strengthen the city’s business recruitment capabilities by adding a non-stop flight to one of the world’s top financial centers,” Mayor Julián Castro said. “I’m looking forward to taking the flight myself.”